Rep. Jacobsen’s bill to help cosmetologists get back to work unanimously passes both chambers
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Rep. Jacobsen’s bill to help cosmetologists get back to work unanimously passes both chambers
A bill from Rep. Cyndy Jacobsen to help cosmetologists, hair designers, barbers, manicurists, and other professionals with similar licenses get back to work after being shut down during COVID, unanimously passed the Senate on Thursday.
House Bill 1930, which the House also passed unanimously, would allow cosmetologists and similar licensees whose licenses expired, or were canceled, on or after March 1, 2020, to renew their license before June 30, 2023.
“I realized this bill was necessary after speaking with a constituent about her experience trying to renew her cosmetology license coming out of the statewide shutdown,” said Jacobsen, R-Puyallup. “So many people in this and similar industries were forced to close their doors. Now that they are returning many of them are finding it difficult to get their licenses renewed.”
Under current law, these licenses expire two years after issuance. If a license expires before the renewal date, the licensee is subject to a penalty fee and payment of each year's renewal fee. Generally, a license that is not renewed within one year after its expiration date is canceled, and the person seeking to renew such a license is required to meet the same standards as a new applicant.
“Anything we can do to help those who have been hurt by the COVID shutdown order get back to work is a good move,” added Jacobsen. “But there is more to do in the interim. I plan to continue working with cosmetologists in the coming months to develop more comprehensive legislation.”
The bill now heads to the governor's desk where it awaits his signature.
The 2022 legislative session is scheduled to end March 10.
